BP home runs are a very different thing though. This was the Derby where the league's biggest sluggers step up, flex their muscles, and put their swings on the line. BP is a rehearsal, this was The Show.
As much as we've followed, and admired his raw talent over the years, this performance was a revelation. He's never hit 30 HR In a season, let alone about that many in one night on national television.
Around the league he is known as a batting average hitter, a productive free swinger who takes advantage of the short porch in right. He's also a guy who has had his focus, and intensity scrutinized since he came up.
Many of us have steadfastly defended him, even when his average was down, and there were calls to replace him. But as much as we,ve admired his raw talent, and had faith in him, we haven't seen very far into the heart of the player. We've seen the smiles, and playful shrugs, the self-deprecation, but I think this is the first time we've seen him lay it on the line. BP pitches from his father, or not, it takes a serious competitor's heart, and a great deal of focus, and training to win the home run derby. Robby stepped up, and took his baseball image to another level last night, and made all of us who've believed in him, and rooted for him very proud. Imagine how proud his pop is